Martha Ruth Foster Luster

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Martha Ruth Foster Luster, 96, beloved wife, mother, grandmother and great grandmother, died peacefully on Tuesday, January 13, 2026 at her daughter’s residence in Culleoka.

Funeral services will be conducted Friday, January 23, 2026 at 11:00 AM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home with Rev. Kenneth Jones officiating. Burial will follow at Friendship Cemetery in Culleoka. The family will visit with friends Friday from 10:00 AM until 11:00 AM at Oakes & Nichols Funeral Home.

Memorials may be made to Friendship Cemetery c/o Mike Jett 2856 Culleoka Hwy. Culleoka, TN 38451. Online condolences may be extended at www.oakesandnichols.com.

Martha was born on April 14, 1929, in Culleoka, TN, to the late George Wesley Foster and the late Ruth Holt Foster. On September 28, 1946, she married Fred Martin “Dude” Luster, who preceded her in death on July 5, 2001. She worked over the years as a distribution carrier for the Pekin Daily Times, a caregiver for the Tazewell County Resource Center, and a greeter and stocker for Walmart, but the role closest to her heart was caring for her family—her seven children, bonus children, extended family, and the many friends and neighbors she welcomed as her own.

Martha cherished time with her family and enjoyed crocheting, gardening, cooking, and canning. At the age of 92, she learned to quilt and proudly completed ten quilts alongside her daughter, a reflection of her adventurous spirit and love of learning. She also enjoyed traveling, Timberline camping weekends, and playing cards. Known for her quick wit and warm smile, she had a way of brightening everyday moments. A cancer survivor, Martha faced life with quiet strength and resilience. Her marriage to Dude was the foundation of her life, built on love, devotion, and companionship. She was a member of Friendship Baptist Church and was active in the food and clothing ministry. Martha was deeply loved, and her love and influence will continue to be felt by those she leaves behind.

Survivors include her children, Fred Luster of Illinois, Marsha Luster Paulson (Bruce) of Culleoka, John Luster (Valerie Aldridge) of Illinois and Florida, Lori Luster Thomson (Rusty) of Texas, Andy Luster (Kris) of Illinois, Trent Luster (Jackie Walton) of Illinois, and Lisa Luster (Larry Van Ness) of Columbia; several grandchildren and great grandchildren; and a host of nieces and nephews.

In addition to her parents and husband, she was preceded in death by a granddaughter, Robin Thomson; great granddaughter, Kerissa Sims; daughter in law, Missy Luster; two sisters, Frances Freeland and Reba Hobbs; four brothers, Joe Claiborne Foster, Everette Holt Foster, Kenneth Davis Foster, and Albert Wesley Foster.

Pallbearers will be Kenny Foster, Eric Romero, Eric Thomson, Juston Thomson, Trasen Sims and Anthony Romero.